If you are facing charges in a domestic violence case in Austin, Texas, your life could completely change. Remember, however, that just because you are facing a legal situation, you still have rights and a chance to seek the best possible outcome for your future.
An Austin family and domestic violence lawyer from the Law Offices of Randall B. Isenberg can help you understand the legal process in your case during this challenging time. We can review your case and determine how we can help you fight the charges and pursue the options available to you. You can reach us by phone to have a free consultation to learn more about how may be able to help.
Our Criminal Defense Team Can Represent You in Your Austin Family and Domestic Violence Case
Attorney Randall Isenberg, a former senior chief felony prosecutor and state district trial judge, leads our firm in building strong cases for our clients to defend them against allegations in family and domestic violence cases. We’re ready to hear what happened in your case and launch our own investigation. We will also:
- Listen to your account of events to learn what happened from your perspective
- Investigate the circumstances of your arrest to determine if your rights were violated in any way
- Examine the charges against you and the evidence the prosecution has in its possession to look for weaknesses in its case
- Negotiate for a plea deal that reduces your charges or the sentence you could face
- Defend you in court and present evidence that could yield a favorable outcome and clear your name and reputation
Our professionals will represent you in all meetings, including ones you have with the authorities. We will walk you through each step of the litigation process, answer your questions, and offer general support. Because each situation is unique, it is difficult to predict the exact outcome of your case. We will work diligently to have your charges reduced or dismissed. We understand the grave impact a conviction could have on your future, so we will take your case seriously and seek the best outcome for you.
Potential Sentencing in Domestic Violence Cases
Because domestic violence cases are often serious, the legal repercussions can be severe. That being said, specific sentencing is different for each case. A domestic violence case could result in probation, prison time, fines, loss of child custody, and more. You could face serious penalties in a family and domestic violence situation, depending on the charges in your case and the prosecution’s case against you.
In Texas, a Class C misdemeanor in this kind of crime, which is the most minor in this category, can bring up to $500 in fines. If you are convicted on a Class A misdemeanor charge, you can expect up to a year in jail and $4,000 in fines. If convicted of a felony crime, you could face any penalty below:
- Third-degree felony – 2 to 10 years behind bars and a $10,000 fine
- Second-degree felony – 2 to 20 years in prison and a $10,000 fine
- First-degree felony – 5 to 99 years behind bars and a $10,000 fine
Plea Bargains or Alternative Sentencing
You may be able to strike a plea bargain or an alternative sentence, depending on the options available. Our lawyer may be able to facilitate these types of deals with prosecutors or a third party. Generally, an admission of guilt is offered in exchange for a lesser sentence or an alternative punishment such as community service.
The specific type of plea bargain or sentencing deal will depend on several factors.
What Factors Can Affect My Sentencing?
Some of the factors that could impact whether a plea bargain is possible or if alternative sentencing is an option include but are not limited to:
- The specific circumstances surrounding the alleged crime
- Whether or not this is your first offense or if you have a criminal history
- If you express remorse or the admission of guilt for your actions
- If you will be able to follow probationary or sentencing guidelines
These are a few examples of the many factors that can impact your future. Whether this is your first time facing the legal system or if you have prior experience with legal issues, our family and domestic violence legal team serving the Austin area can review your situation and advise you on your next steps. We can speak with you more during a free initial consultation.
Examples of Cases for a Family and Domestic Violence Lawyer
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported that about one in every four women, and one in 10 men, have or will experience a form of violence from a partner within their lifetime. This type of abuse can come in many different forms. According to the National Institute of Justice (NIJ), domestic violence can fall into one of the following categories:
Physical violence: Any use of physical force from a partner that can cause harm is considered physical violence. This may include hitting, pushing, choking, punching, and more. If you experienced this type of behavior, you could be a victim of domestic abuse.
Sexual violence: Sexual violence encompasses any sexual behavior or advances that are non-consensual in nature. Sexual violence can cause a great deal of physical and emotional harm. Sexual violence victims have the right to pursue legal action against a responsible partner.
Verbal or behavioral threats: Any intimidating form of communication falls under the verbal or behavioral threats category and could be punishable by law. This might include in-person communication but could also extend to text messaging, emails, and other forms of communication through social media.
Psychological and emotional violence: Contrary to what many might think, violence does not necessarily have to be physical. It can be emotional or psychological in nature, too. Controlling behavior, purposeful humiliation or manipulation, and other forms of emotional abuse could be grounds for a claim or legal action.
Stalking: Stalking is not considered a category of domestic abuse, but it describes a range of unwanted behaviors or advances. This might include someone sending unwanted presents or cards, following you, and more. Stalking can happen with a current or former domestic partner and is considered a form of abuse.
Contact Us Today to Discuss Your Austin Family and Domestic Violence Case
If you are ready to take action in your fight for justice, our team can help. Call the Law Offices of Randall B. Isenberg today at (214) 696-9253 for a free, no-obligation consultation. We are ready to help you fight for your future.
Call or text (214) 696-9253 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form
